How to Choose a Wreath
- 1). Examine evergreen wreaths for quality construction. Lift the wreath from the display rack to judge its weight relative to its size. A well-constructed wreath will be heavy and full. A light wreath indicates that the evergreens are overly dry or that the base does not have enough evergreens to support it.
- 2). Check both sides of the wreath. It should be full and covered with evergreens on both sides. Avoid one-sided wreaths that have been designed with boughs on the front only. These will dry out quickly and generally are not sturdy enough to withstand winter weather.
- 3). Feel the evergreens to see if they have begun to dry out. Fresh evergreens are pliable and will emit a fresh scent if pinched slightly. Avoid wreaths that have brittle or loose needles.
- 4). Examine the decorations that have been added to the wreath. Select wreaths with ornaments and embellishments that are water proof and are attached securely. Loose ornaments can easily be blown loose in cold winter winds and ornaments that are not waterproof may bleed and lose color. Ornaments may crack and discolor once frozen. Check to be sure the ribbon is water proof; a gorgeous burgundy bow may look great now, but if it's not designed for outside conditions it may end up lifeless and dull.
- 5). Look for colors and decorating styles that reflect your personal style. Avoid the temptation to purchase the least expensive wreath. Invest the added few dollars in a quality wreath that will look spectacular on your front door; after all, it does announce your Christmas spirit to the world.
